In a memorable episode of Bitchin' Rides, Dave Kindig and his team took on the ambitious project of revamping a 1965 Volkswagen Beetle, blending classic design elements with modern upgrades. Known for their ability to transform any car into a stunning masterpiece, Kindig-It Design’s approach to the VW Beetle was no different, giving it a unique twist while maintaining the iconic charm that enthusiasts love.
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Dave Kindig, the mastermind behind Kindig-It Design, has a deep appreciation for classic cars, especially VWs. His connection to the Beetle dates back to his teenage years when he began tinkering with cars, learning skills like welding and bodywork in the VW scene. The love for VWs stayed with him, and it’s evident in his attention to detail in every aspect of this Beetle's redesign.
The Modern Twist on a Classic Icon
This particular 1965 VW Beetle underwent significant modifications, all while preserving the iconic silhouette that has made the Beetle a beloved classic for decades. At the heart of the transformation was the engine upgrade—a 2110cc dual carburetor powerhouse built by Blackline Racing, which added a whole new level of performance to the humble VW. Paired with a Superstreet transaxle and custom A1 Sidewinder exhaust, the car was not just designed to look good, but also to deliver on the road.
The suspension system also received an overhaul, featuring a lowered rear suspension and an Airkewld narrowed drop front beam. These upgrades, combined with Wilwood disc brakes, ensured that the Beetle could handle modern roads with ease, while giving it a sleek, aggressive stance that set it apart from typical vintage VWs.
Elegant Design and Custom Touches
As with any project led by Kindig and his team, the exterior and interior modifications were as impressive as the performance upgrades. The Beetle was given a two-tone paint job, a stunning combination of Mercedes Black and Bentley Magnolia White, accented by a custom matte vintage red hue for the interior. The use of these high-end colors made the car stand out, giving it a luxurious vibe while staying true to its vintage roots.
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One of the most striking features of the redesign was the incorporation of an original 1962 sunroof section, which was carefully grafted into the roof of the '65 model. This addition not only elevated the car’s aesthetic appeal but also added a retro charm that fans of the classic Beetle would appreciate. Additionally, hand-built chrome trim, triple-plated by Ogden Chrome, further enhanced the car's vintage appeal while adding a touch of modern sophistication.
The meticulous attention to detail extended to smaller elements like the custom-built hood trim and integrated hood handles, showcasing the team’s commitment to merging form with function. The entire build was a celebration of craftsmanship, a hallmark of every Kindig-It Design project.
Interior Luxury Meets Classic Style
Inside the Beetle, the Kindig-It team worked to create a blend of classic and contemporary comfort. The seats were refinished using vintage red whisper leather by Sew Fine, a top-tier upholsterer from Colorado. The interior also featured Mercedes Velour carpet, elevating the car’s luxury status. While the seats and steering wheel were restored to retain their classic appearance, Kindig chose to install Dakota Digital HDX 59 Impala gauges to provide a modern touch with advanced functionality.
To match the luxurious interior design, the sound system also received a significant upgrade. A Kicker iQs sound system was installed, allowing for a modern audio experience without compromising the vehicle’s vintage feel. This combination of modern technology and classic design elements made the interior as impressive as the exterior.
A Tribute to a Timeless Legacy
Dave Kindig’s redesign of the 1965 Volkswagen Beetle was a masterful blend of old and new, paying homage to the car’s legacy while incorporating state-of-the-art enhancements. The project exemplified Kindig’s philosophy of respecting the original character of a car while elevating it to modern standards. As Kindig himself has noted in interviews, the appeal of vintage VWs lies in their simplicity and timeless design, something he has always admired since his youth.
With the VW Beetle project, Kindig and his team once again demonstrated their ability to create “bitchin' rides” that capture the spirit of the original vehicle while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in automotive design. Whether you’re a VW enthusiast or simply a fan of classic cars, this Beetle is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that define Kindig-It Design's work.
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